Program Assistant I (Buena Vista Correctional Complex)

Colorado Department of Corrections; Colorado; On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Disability insurance

Paid holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Colorado Department of Corrections is seeking a Program Assistant I at Buena Vista Correctional Complex to organize work processes, handle confidential information, and provide effective customer service to internal and external stakeholders. The role supports the Warden's office and administration unit at BVCC/BVMC.

Qualifications include four years of clerical experience or equivalent education/experience, plus strong organizational and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Four (4) years of general clerical experience related to the work assigned to this position.
• A combination of related education in Business, Criminal Justice or a similar discipline and/or relevant experience equal to four (4) years.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide programmatic support on behalf of an executive or director.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the work unit staff and program internal/external stakeholders.
• Provide outstanding customer service to CDOC employees, outside agencies, and the public.
• Organize and establish work processes to support management and ensure efficient office operations.
• Update and maintain systems and databases to ensure timely follow-up on issues.

Skills

General clerical

Customer service

Data entry

Communication

Education

Business or Criminal Justice related education

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Department Information

This position is only open to Colorado state residents.

This Program Assistant I position is located at Buena Vista Correctional Complex in Buena Vista, CO.

This posting may be used to fill future vacancies at this location.

If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference and builds greater public confidence in good government, consider joining the dedicated people of the State of Colorado. Our professionals strive to support state government and the citizens of Colorado. Customer service is a key component for every position in state government as is the focus on ideas and ways to redesign the delivery of services in making state government more effective and efficient.

Employee Benefits

• Distinctive career advancement opportunities throughout the state system;


• Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401K and 457 plans. Member Contribution Rates . Correctional Officers I-IV qualify as \"Safety Officers\" and are eligible for increased PERA benefits;


• Medical and dental health plans;


• Short- and long-term disability coverage;


• Paid life insurance;


• 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave;


• Wellness program, tuition reimbursement, training opportunities and more;


• Visit State of Colorado Employee Benefits. for more information.


• This position is compensated on a bi-weekly pay cycle.

We are pleased to share that the CDOC has collaborated with Fading West Development LLC (FWD) to assist our employees with housing in the Buena Vista Area. They are located in the Farm neighborhood near shopping, restaurants, a fitness center and work. *CDOC cannot guarantee housing, and does not operate the housing.

Description of Job

The purpose of this position is to organize and establish work processes to provide technical and professional support to the Warden, members of the management team, and facility as a whole from within the Administration Unit of Buena Vista Correctional Center (BVCC) and Buena Vista Minimum Center (BVMC); process confidential information and provide effective customer service for internal and external stakeholders; communicate and share information on behalf of the Warden while maintaining confidentiality and utilizing appropriate communication methods; ensure compliance with adherence to the policies and procedures of Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC), American Correctional Accreditation (ACA) and the Buena Vista Complex; resolve problems, answer inquiries, provide information and advise others on technical issues or matters pertaining to the Warden's office; establish and maintain professional and cooperative working relationships; represent the Department and BVCC/BVMC in a manner that reflects dedication and commitment to delivering efficient, effective and elegant services.

Primary Job Responsibilities

• Provide programmatic support on behalf of an executive or director;


• Serve as the primary liaison between the work unit staff, and program internal and external stakeholders;


• Provide outstanding customer service to CDOC employees, outside agencies, and the public;


• Interpret, explain, and apply basic principles, rules, regulations, policies, precedents, guidelines, and objectives;


• Organize and establish work processes to provide support to management, ensuring the delivery of designated services and optimal office processes;


• Analyze, evaluate, develop, and implement work processes to achieve program efficiency and deliver needed services effectively;


• Run reports, research raw data and sort appropriately, in order to provide to executive staff clear and concise information, in order to make best business decisions and/or to report agency status on goals;


• Provide assistance with technical budget detail matter, such as preparing budget documents, and estimating budget needs;


• Prepare executive presentations, reports, memos, letters, and other documents;


• Review records and reports pertaining to activities such as production, processes, and procedures to verify details, monitor work activities, and evaluate program performance;


• Read and analyze documents, submissions, and reports to determine program significance and proper distribution;


• Handle all arrangements for the office related to meetings, coordinate events, and other office needs;


• Update and maintain systems, such as databases and tracking systems, to ensure efficient operation and to ensure timely follow-up on outstanding issues;


• Implement, revise and create office practices and procedures; adhere to state, fiscal and personnel rules;


• Other duties, as assigned.

Class Code & Classification Description

H4R1XX Program Assistant I

Minimum Qualifications

Experience Only:

Four (4) years of general clerical experience related to the work assigned to this position. This experience must be clearly described, in your own words, within the work experience section of your application to meet this requirement. Work experience less than full time will be prorated.

• Clerical duties may include: document creation, word processing; create and revise office procedures; compiling and formatting the content for program materials such as annual reports and newsletters; screening documents and supporting information to determine eligibility, authenticity, or identity; accounting for the unit's allotted funds by authorizing operating expenditures, data entry; printing, scanning, and making copies; scheduling; arrange meeting logistics and equipment; record keeping, filing and maintenance; answering multi-line phones; and general administrative tasks in an office support environment.

Or

Education And Experience

A combination of related education in Business, Criminal Justice or a similar discipline and/or relevant experience as related to the work assigned equal to four (4) years. You MUST submit a copy of your unofficial transcripts with your name, college name, degree and date conferred in order to receive credit.

Only applicants who meet the minimum qualifications for the vacancy will be included in the comparative analysis process.

Ensure that the “Work Experience” section of the application is complete and contains all relevant work experience related to the position that you are applying for. This information will be used to help determine compensation for the position. “See resume” statements cannot be accepted in lieu of the “work experience” section of the application. Additional work experience will not be accepted after the job announcement close date for compensation purposes.

Required Competencies

• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills;


• Superb written and oral communications skills;


• Self-directed and motivated work ethic;


• Strong analytical skills;


• Strong proofreading skills;


• Impeccable organization skills and meticulous attention to details;


• Ability to research and gather data;


• Ability to multi-task;


• Exercise discretion in highly sensitive personnel matters while maintaining confidentiality;


• Ability to learn and apply personnel rules, procedures, processes, and concepts;


• Self-control, a strong sense of ability to work in stressful, potentially violent situations;


• Ability to remain alert, emotionally stable, and mentally resilient under pressure and observant throughout their shift;


• Tolerance to stress, confinement, and high-stakes interaction;


• Ability to read and comprehend the English language;


• Ability to effectively communicate fluently in English both verbally and in writing;


• Ability to create accessible documents and technical content that follows plain language guidelines with accessibility in mind.

Preferred Qualifications

• One (1) year experience of high level clerical duties. High Level clerical duties may include: document creation, word processing; create and revise office procedures; compiling and formatting the content for program materials such as annual reports and newsletters; screening documents and supporting information to determine eligibility, authenticity, or identity; accounting for the unit's allotted funds by authorizing operating expenditures;


• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint) and Google Suite (Gmail, Drive, Sheets);


• Ability to interpret complex rules, regulations, policies, procedures and guidelines;


• Experience interpreting complex rules, regulations, policies, procedures and guidelines;


• Comprehensive knowledge of relevant federal and state law/legislation.


• Experience working with confidential information.

Important Information

The Assessment Process: Your application will be reviewed to determine if you meet the minimum Qualifications (MQ's). Applicants that meet MQ’s will be included in the Comparative Analysis process. Colorado Revised Statutes require that state employees are hired and promoted through a comparative analysis which may include, but is not limited to, a suitability screening, Online Assessment, oral assessment, written performance assessment or it may include a review of your application material and your responses to any supplemental questions by a Subject Matter Expert (SME) to assess and rank applicants in order to establish an eligible list for referral to the hiring manager for final consideration.

Be sure the “Work Experience” section of your application is complete and specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, and accomplishments as they relate to the Description of the Job, Minimum Qualifications, Required Competencies and Preferred Qualifications as listed above. Resumes and “see resume” statements will not be accepted in lieu of the “Work Experience” section of the application. Failure to include adequate information or follow instructions by the closing date may result in your application not being accepted and/or may affect your score, rank or inclusion in the final pool of eligible applicants.

Employees who are rehired or reinstated within six months of their separation will return at either their previous pay rate if hired into the same class level or based on their time in the class series, whichever is higher. Those rehired or reinstated after six months' separation will be calculated using the same formula for new hires and promotions.

Please note that while this change in role may constitute a change in title and/or responsibility, salary adjustments are not guaranteed and may be influenced by factors such as internal pay equity, budget constraints, market benchmarks, or the individual’s current compensation level. Any changes to compensation will be determined separately and communicated accordingly.

In order to process a background investigation, your application must include at least ten (10) ten years of the most current work experience unless experience related to the job for which you are applying is later than (10) years. Failure to provide this information could result in delays and/or elimination from the background investigation process.

Conditions of Employment

All job offers are contingent upon a successful medical screening by a healthcare professional, certifying the candidate's ability to perform the essential functions of the position. Applicant must consent to hold harmless CDOC and its agents and staff from any liability arising in whole or in part from the testing and the use of this information in connection with CDOC’s consideration of application for employment.

• Must be 21 years of age


• Possess a valid driver’s license. Drivers must maintain a valid, non-restricted Colorado driver’s license, obey traffic laws, and be able to safely operate a motor vehicle. State drivers are expected to maintain a safe driving record consistent with Colorado Division of Human Resources Universal Policy Driving Standards . Eligibility to drive a State-owned vehicle, includes holding a valid Colorado driver’s license within 30 days of employment or residency change and meeting specific driving record criteria. Serious traffic violations, including DUIs or reckless driving, can disqualify drivers for up to seven years. A ll State Vehicles are monitored by telematics for safe operation and employees have no reasonable expectation of privacy while using an agency State Fleet vehicle.


• Possess a high school diploma or GED


• Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination are required to:
  
  
  • Disclose the details of the prior termination or resignation on the application.
  
  
  • Explain why the circumstances of the prior separation should not disqualify them from the current position.
  
  
  • Provide your employee number from your prior State employment. Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination and failure to provide this information will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with CDOC.
  
  


• Have NO felony convictions, to include any actions defined in 5 U.S.C. 301; U.S.C. 509, 510; 42 U.S.C. 15601-15609. The CDOC shall not hire nor promote anyone who may have contact with an offender who has engaged in sexual abuse which includes acts, activity, and sexual behavior, in a prison or other institution as defined in 42 U.S.C. 1997; or has been convicted of engaging or attempting to engage in sexual activity in the community facilitated by force, overt or implied threats of force or coercion, or if the victim did not consent or was unable to consent or refuse, or has been civilly or administratively adjudicated to have engaged in the activity described in the above paragraph. The agency shall consider any incidents of sexual harassment in determining whether to hire anyone who may have contact with offenders or residents.


• Applicants must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of application; DOC cannot provide H-1B sponsorship at this time.


• Successfully pass all modules of the six-week Colorado Department of Corrections Basic Training, to include English reading comprehension, relevant competency assessments and written/practical exams in Defensive Tactics.


• Possess the physical ability to successfully complete Defensive Tactics
  
  
  • Lift arms above head and kick as high as own waist
  
  
  • Stabilize another person to accomplish a controlled take down
  
  
  • Use arms, palms of hands, shins, and feet to deliver blows
  
  
  • Withstand impact (slow speed or with a safety bag) on own body from strikes/blows
  
  
  • Swing a baton in a striking technique
  
  
  • Rotate body 90 degrees with feet planted for striking with foot or using a defensive tactic;
  
  
  • Get down on one or both knees and up again with multiple repetitions
  
  


• Will be exposed to Oleoresin Capsicum during Basic Training and will be exposed while on assignment


• Must be able to see and hear in order to observe, address and respond to potential breaches in safety and security


• Seize, hold, control or subdue violent or assaultive persons and defend oneself or others to prevent injury


• Demonstrate body agility, strength of all four limbs and the ability to walk and climb stairs consistently


• Work in situations involving assaultive behavior, physical control of another person and/or restraint situations


• Deal with individuals with a range of moods and behaviors, utilizing tactfulness and a congenial, personable manner


• Work with people of the opposite sex, diverse racial ethnic groups, mentally ill and emotionally disturbed offenders


• Communicate by talking, listening and/or signaling people to convey or exchange information, assignments


• Work in an environment with fluctuating noise and temperature (hot and cold) which may include a moving outdoors in inclement weather and/or concrete floor/wall work settings


• Willing and able to travel


• Willing and able to work various shifts, days, afternoons, graveyards (nights) which includes a rotating shift schedule


• TB (tuberculosis) screening is required of all new employees upon hire

Drug Testing Policy

The CDOC is committed to a work environment free from illegal drugs and alcohol. Employees (see exception below) may use marijuana in their personal time but are prohibited from working while under the influence of any substance, including marijuana. A drug test will be administered to all new employees; employees must successfully pass. Random drug screening will occur throughout employment.

Exception for POST Certified Employees

Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified employees are prohibited from the use of marijuana. Health care professionals must check their licensing requirements regarding marijuana use.

Appeal Rights

As an applicant who has been removed from consideration during the selection or comparative analysis process, you may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board and/or request a review by the State Personnel Director. A standard appeal form is available on the State Personnel Board website, https://spb.colorado.gov/forms-and-filing . If you appeal, your appeal must be submitted in writing on the official appeal form, signed by you or your representative, and received at the following address within ten (10) days of your receipt of this notice: Colorado State Personnel Board/State Personnel Director, Attn: Appeals Processing, 1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver, CO 80203. Fax: [phone]. Phone: [phone]. Email address: [e-mail]. The ten-day deadline and these appeal procedures also apply to all charges of discrimination. Refer to Chapters 4 and 8 of the State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, 4 CCR 801, for information about the appeals process. The State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures are available at spb.colorado.gov .

Equal Opportunity Statement

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. The State of Colorado strives to create a Colorado for All by building and maintaining workplaces that value and respect all Coloradans through a commitment to equal opportunity and hiring based on merit and fitness. The State is resolute in non‑discriminatory practices in everything we do, including hiring, employment, and advancement opportunities.

The Colorado Department of Corrections is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals with a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre‑employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. Please direct your inquiries to our Employee Relations Specialist, Kristen Lange, at [e-mail] or call 719-728-0270.

ALL DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS FACILITIES AND BUILDINGS ARE TOBACCO FREE.

WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE PROTECTED CLASSES TO APPLY.